All the virtues of humankind are summed up in the one word `steadfastness', if we but act
according to its laws. It draws to us as by a magnet
the blessings and bestowals of Heaven, if we but rise
up according to the obligations it implies.

2

God be praised, the house of the heart is lit by the
light of unswerving constancy, and the soul's lodging
is bedecked with the ornament of faithfulness.

3

Steadfastness is a treasure that makes a man so rich
as to have no need of the world or any person or any
thing that is therein. Constancy is a special joy, that
leads us mortals on to lofty heights, great progress,
and the winning of the perfections of Heaven. All
praise be to the Beloved's holy court, for granting
this most wondrous grace to His faithful people, and
to His favoured ones, this best of gifts.